Pakistan information and communication technology (ICT) sector posted a trade surplus of $2.91 billion during the first nine months of fiscal year 2026.
The strong surplus highlights the sector low dependence on imports and growing demand for Pakistani digital services worldwide. ICT export earnings increased by 19.7% and reached $3.38 billion, compared to $2.83 billion in the same period last year.
Most of this income turned into net gains because the industry mainly relies on local talent and services. Freelance technology exports also showed impressive growth. They rose by 51% to $856.3 million, up from $567.5 million a year earlier.
The increase reflects strong international demand for Pakistani freelancers and digital professionals. At the same time, DigiSkills.pk reported more than 5.14 million training completions, helping build a skilled workforce across the country.
In March 2026, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority conducted a 5G spectrum auction that generated around $509.6 million, or PKR 142.6 billion. The auction marked an important step toward advanced digital connectivity.
Telecom sector revenues reached PKR 837 billion during the July-March period, supported by higher data usage and growing connectivity. Total mobile and fixed line subscriptions climbed to 207.22 million by March 2026, while tele-density reached 82.6%.
The telecom industry also contributed PKR 285 billion in taxes and duties. These figures show that Pakistan digital economy is expanding rapidly and playing a key role in supporting the country economic stability.
